Cardiovascular Technologist Programs in Iowa
Cardiac Ultrasound (Echocardiography) Programs in Iowa
Echo or ultrasound technicians are also known as diagnostic medical sonographers. In this exciting job you will obtain diagnostic images of internal organs and in this case the heart, which are produce by high-frequency sound waves. The images you produce are then presented to the physician for interpretation and diagnosis.
Iowa has an increased demand for well-trained technicians, and the state requires ultrasound technicians to receive their training through a school accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), whether the student is choosing a certification, associate or bachelor’s degree. Contact the schools on our page that offer echo tech programs to learn more.
As the baby boomer generation ages and technology advances, you have a good chance of advancement and job security as an EKG tech in Iowa. You will have one-on-one time with patients, so possessing a competent, pleasant demeanor is an advantage.
Echo Tech/Cardiac Ultrasound Education in Iowa
Des Moines has several hospitals and research institutions with accredited EKG technician programs. If your plans include earning an associate degree, it will require about two years. Certificate programs usually take two to four semesters, and bachelor’s degrees take four years.
The criteria for most two year associate programs in sonography includes five semesters of classroom instruction, skill lab practice in clinical experience at a variety of healthcare settings. When you complete this program you do have the opportunity to advance into the Bachelor of Science program.
The admission criteria typically requires official transcripts from your high school and any college you may have attended. It also asks for ACT or SAT results. Most programs also require some prerequisites, such as anatomy and physiology.
The Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography courses typically include:
- Introduction to Radiography Sciences
- Anatomy & Physiology for RadSci
- Elementary Staff and Inference
- Cardiac Sonography I, II and labs
- Vascular Sonography I,II & labs
- Cardiac Physiology & Hemo
- Vascular Sonography I, II & Lab
- Advanced Sonography & Lab
- Advanced Cardiac Sonography & Lab
- Research Methodologies for RS
- Radiation Sciences QM & HC Admin
- Vascular Sonography I, II, Lab
- Multi-Disciplinary Capstone Seminar
- DMS Clinical Intern I-V
There are credential exams by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, which can be taken after graduation. The examination fee is $250 for the RDMS or RDCS certification. Practice exams can be taken before your final examination.
If you need financial assistance, complete a FAFSA application from the financial aid office. This is a federal grant based on your income. There is an Iowa Tuition Grant and individual colleges often have low interest loans or scholarships.
Echo Tech Careers in Iowa
According to the Bureau of Labor Education a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer earned an average income of $67,170 in May 2013. The projected growth for this occupation is 42 percent by 2020.
Employment may be found in hospitals, medical or diagnostic laboratories, outpatient care centers, physician’s offices and at colleges or university campuses. Greater than 40 percent of the available jobs are located in the cities of Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Iowa City and Des Moines.
Choose an echocardiogram technician degree that meets your goals, and it may open many new doors for you. You can contact the schools below to learn more.